Airfix

An aircraft that is undoubtedly one of the most significant in the history of aviation, the Hawker Siddeley Harrier GR.1 was developed from the Hawker P.1127 experimental aircraft produced to test the possibilities of V/STOL vectored thrust flight. These aircraft would successfully master the transition from hovering to forward flight and back to the hover, despite several of the development aircraft suffering accidents during testing.  The prospect of a viable V/STOL aircraft proved to be of great interest to both the British and US military, who funded further development of the aircraft. The new 'Jump Jet' was an instant hit with the British public, who marvelled at the ingenuity of their aviation industry, which was once again proving to be the envy of the world. As the consummate display performer, the Harrier was always a popular display item with Airshow crowds, with the two forming a bond which would last...